Take a breath. It happens to careful people too. Do these steps in this order: acting fast gives you the best chance.
Stop.Do not send any more money, and stop replying to them. If they say a fee will get your money back, that is part of the scam.
Call your bank now.Use the number on the back of your card or in your bank’s official app, not a number from a message. Ask them to stop the payment and block your cards.
Lock your accounts.If you gave a password or code, change it from a safe device, starting with your email. If someone got into your phone or computer, turn the internet off first.
Report it.
Keep the evidence.Take screenshots of the messages, the website and the payment. Write down the dates and amounts.
Anyone who offers to get your money back for a fee is running a second scam, even if they say they are police, lawyers or a recovery company.
Tell UtilForge what worked and what did not. Each button opens an email to lindsay@utilforge.org that you write and send yourself. UtilForge will only quote your words on this site if you say it may, and then with your first name and country only.
The whole method in one book. “How to Become Safer Online” is a free 171-page large-print guide to the five steps most scams follow, and what to do if money or details have already gone. Read or print the free book.